A group has submitted language to the Michigan Board of Canvassers for a proposed ballot initiative that would amend the state constitution to explicitly state that only American citizens are eligible to vote in all state and local elections.
Americans for Citizen Voting – Michigan submitted the proposed constitutional amendment language on April 30. In addition to limiting eligibility to U.S. citizens, the measure would require documentary proof of citizenship when registering to vote and mandate a government-issued photo identification to cast a ballot.
READ: Michigan Rep. John James Is Determined To Flip Governorship Red During Midterms
According to the submitted language, the initiative would provide that only U.S. citizens are eligible voters in all state and local Michigan elections. It would require documentary proof of citizenship for new voter registrations while also mandating that the Secretary of State verify the citizenship of existing registered voters and follow a legal process to remove non-citizens from state voter rolls. The proposal also requires a photo ID to cast a ballot in person or listing a driver’s license or state ID number to vote absentee. The measure includes a provision to provide identification documents at no cost for those experiencing financial hardship.
Proponents argue the amendment is necessary to prevent non-citizens from voting and to bring clarity to the election process. Kurt O’Keefe, treasurer of the ballot committee, referenced the case of a Chinese citizen studying at the University of Michigan who was charged with voter fraud and perjury after allegedly casting a ballot in last year’s election.
“The Chinese student who voted in last year’s election is facing prison time, a fine and deportation because of the confusion that surrounds this issue,” O’Keefe said in a statement. “Michigan needs the clarity that comes with the Citizen Only Voting Amendment.”
READ: United States Sues Michigan To Block Climate Change Lawsuit Against Fossil Fuel Companies
Americans for Citizen Voting cites strong public support for the measure. According to a January survey of likely 2026 Michigan voters, 82 percent support a state constitutional amendment to ensure only American citizens can vote in state and local elections. When asked simply if only U.S. citizens should vote in Michigan elections, support reportedly increases to 87 percent. The survey also indicated 84 percent of those questioned support requiring proof of U.S. citizenship when voting.
Paul Jacob, chairman of Americans for Citizen Voting, stated that Michiganders recognize this as a critical issue and desire a “commonsense solution.” He noted that similar language has been filed previously but expressed belief that their current proposal is legally and politically stronger.
The group highlights that foreign citizens can currently vote in 21 cities across the country in states that have not passed such amendments, citing instances in cities in California, Illinois, Maryland, Vermont, and Washington, D.C.
“Leaving holes in the process that easily allow non-citizens to vote disenfranchises citizens,” O’Keefe added. “We need to make sure that only U.S. citizens can vote in our elections. This initiative does the job.”
READ: Kari Lake Rips Michigan Democrat Over Trump Impeachment Push
Americans for Citizen Voting has been active nationally, stating they have helped pass similar amendments in 14 states since 2018, including Alabama, Colorado, Florida, Idaho, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, North Dakota, South Carolina, and Wisconsin. Currently, 20 states have laws ensuring that only American citizens can vote. Similar measures are already set to appear on the 2026 ballot in Arkansas, Kansas, and South Dakota.
The submitted language will now undergo review by the Michigan Board of Canvassers as the group seeks to qualify the measure for a future statewide ballot, potentially in 2026.
Please make a small donation to the Tampa Free Press to help sustain independent journalism. Your contribution enables us to continue delivering high-quality, local, and national news coverage.
Connect with us: Follow the Tampa Free Press on Facebook and Twitter for breaking news and updates.
Sign up: Subscribe to our free newsletter for a curated selection of top stories delivered straight to your inbox.
